Æ

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people apply to this program per year?

The Alliance receives thousands of full applications per year for only a small number of available opportunities (depending on the industry demand at that time).  Please be advised that this is a very competitive and lengthy process. 

Are you the Union?

No. The Alliance is a non-profit organization funded by Electrical Contractors who are part of the Greater Toronto Electrical Contractors Association. All Alliance apprentices are IBEW 353 members and receive training from The Alliance on behalf of the Union.

Can I be a part-time apprentice?

No, This apprenticeship is a full-time commitment.

Will taking a College Pre-Trade program benefit me?

Further education is always helpful but does not guarantee you entry into this apprenticeship program.  

How long will it take before I am actually on the job?

The timeline can vary based on current industry demand, depending on this it could take between 3-12 months.  Candidates should not resign from their current employment until they are notified by the Alliance in advance of their 2-week Safety & Orientation training course.  Upon completion of the training, Applicants are then dispatched to their respective Electrical Contractor.  

Can I apply if I am in my last year of high school?

No. Applicants can only apply once they have received their Ontario Secondary School Diploma and have their official transcripts.  Please note, candidates must have the applicable Math, English, and Physics credits to apply for this program.

I have my GED, can I apply to this program?

Yes, as long as you have successfully completed the 3 required courses (Math, English, Physics) at the appropriate grade level as per the application requirements.

What should I do if I was educated outside of Ontario?

For those Applicants who have not completed their high school education in Ontario, the Alliance will accept a Comprehensive Secondary School Assessment (course by course assessment) Report from such services as International Credential Assessment Services of Canada (ICAS) found on the Government Canada website.

Why is it mandatory to have Math, English and Physics to apply?

These subjects have been identified as key foundational qualifications to help apprentices successfully complete their apprenticeship, Trade school qualifications, and the C of Q exam.  

I have a University degree; do I still need the mandated High School Credits?

If you have an Ontario University degree in an engineering or technical discipline and you are able to demonstrate the completion of at least 1 Math, 1 Physics and 1 English credit you may be exempt from supplying high school transcripts.  It is recommended that you call the Alliance to discuss your specific situation.

I don’t have the high school Physics course listed, but I did complete a Physics course at University. Can it be substituted?

Yes, however you must have it evaluated for equivalency through a designated organization or through your university.

I completed an Ontario College Certificate in Electrical Techniques and it is stated that upon completion, students are eligible to be exempted from the in-school portion of the Electrical Apprenticeship program. Does this mean that I do not have to attend Trade School?

The Alliance does not evaluate exemptions related to Trade School.  This is managed through the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training & Skills Development.  

Where can I obtain missing pre-requisite educational credits?

Please contact your local school board or Adult Education Centre:
Toronto District School Board:
(416) 397-3000

Continuing Education: (416) 338-4000
York Region District School Board
: (905) 727-3141

Continuing Education: 1-877-280-8180
Peel District School Board
: (905) 890-1099

Continuing Education: 1-866-275-1536 ext. 410
Durham District School Board:
(905) 666-5500

Simcoe District School Board: 705-734-6363

Continuing Education: (905) 436-3211
ACE Distance Learning: 
info@cscau.com

Courses available in-class and online!
TVO/ILC Independent Learning Centre 

Toronto: 416-484-2704
Toll Free North America: (+1) 800-387-5512
Email: ilc@tvo.org

I am in another Red Seal Trade; can I have my hours transferred over to this program?

No, your hours are non-transferable from one apprenticeship to another as the skill sets and knowledge are different.

Can I apply in person to the Electrical Apprentice Training Alliance?

No, all applications must go through the process outline on our website 

I have a family member or friend who is an Apprentice through this program, does the Alliance have a referral program?

No, all applications must go through the process outlined on our website.

Can someone (relative, friend) apply to this program on my behalf ?

No. All applicants are responsible for applying to this program themselves. All correspondence and inquiries must be made by the applicant directly.